Sam Clayton

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Sam Clayton has been conga player and supporting vocalist with the American rock band Little Feat since 1972.

He was introduced to the band by his friend Kenny Gradney (with whom he had played behind Delaney & Bonnie) who was to replace original bassist Roy Estrada. Gradney recommended Clayton to the band as he knew both men needed work following D & B's divorce.

Sam made his debut with Feat on their third album Dixie Chicken in 1973. He also played congas on Bonnie Raitt's 1977 song, "Sweet Forgiveness," off her album of the same name. As time went on his vocal talents as well as his sexy percussion came to the fore. Although he rarely sang lead, his silky scat-influenced bass vocals were strongly in evidence on tracks like "Rock 'n' Roll Doctor" from Feats Don't Fail Me Now. His first lead vocal with the group was "Feel The Groove" from Down on the Farm in 1979 but the band broke up shortly afterwards and the subsequent death of founder Lowell George meant they did not reform until 1988.

When Feat re-grouped Sam's voice became even more evident on songs like "The Ingenue" (from Representing the Mambo) and "Romance Without Finance" and "That's A Pretty Good Love" (from Ain't Had Enough Fun). He also sings the Lowell George classic "Spanish Moon" at Feat's live shows.

Sam Clayton is also a respected session musician and has played with among others Duane Allman, Jimmy Barnes, Jimmy Buffett, Valerie Carter, Freddie King, Robert Palmer, Bonnie Raitt, Bob Seger and Travis Tritt.

For a complete sessionography check out the official Little Feat website